When planning to stay in a new city for a few weeks or months, how do you decide whether to book temporary accommodation or look for an apartment?

I think location, access to grocery stores, transportation, safety, and the total monthly cost are all important factors. For example, someone researching new apartments in waxahachie tx for a work assignment or a longer visit would probably need to consider more than just the rent.

For those of you who have travelled for work or stayed in an unfamiliar city for an extended period, what do you usually check before choosing where to stay? Do you prefer to book a short stay first and explore the area, or arrange accommodation before arriving?